Top Ten Driving Tips When Going on a Holiday

By James Tam on October 11th, 2007

Come summer, and most of the Americans are eagerly looking forward to a nice holiday, which for most, is long overdue. This includes a lot of road trips, visiting their friends, families, or just for a vacation to some new place. However, with so any Americans taking to the road almost simultaneously, it also becomes very dangerous to drive, due to increased traffic, as well as general carelessness which come with holidays. This coupled with alcohol, and long trips result in exhaustion, and fatigue greatly increases the risks of meeting with an accident.

Ten tips to be safe on the road this summer:

1. Don’t Drink and Drive- Everyone tends to be in the party mood during holidays. But this should not be a reason to drink and drive. It is better to take a cab, or have a designated driver.
2. Wear your Seatbelts- The best protection for you and your family is the simple action of wearing seat belts. Children should be safely tucked into appropriate booster seats according to their height. And please, don’t drive with your child on your lap!
3. Watch the Speed- Following the speed limit ensures that you will have complete control over the car, as that is what the speed limits are meant for. Breaking the speed limit not only risks your being penalized by the police, but may also result in serious accident.
4. Check the Tires- Old and worn out tires pose a high risk especially when you reach certain speeds. These tires are prone to bursting which may result in a serious accident. Tire bursts are also caused by incorrect air pressure. Always have the tires as well the air pressure checked before leaving.
5. Check the Batteries- If it has been a long time since the batteries in the car have been replaced, the now would be a good time. Old batteries can leave you stranded, and this should be particularly avoided when going on long road trips.
6. Check the Lights- You should preferably have someone take a walk around the car while you check every light to make sure they are working.
7. First Aid Kit- It is always a good idea to take a first aid kit when you are traveling by road. This can take care of emergencies till the paramedics arrive.
8. Check the Weather- While it would officially be summer; this season also leads to rains in various parts of the country. Check the weather updates and the satellite pictures to be warned in advance. Also beware of places that are prone to flooding, or are on the brink of flooding.
9. Drive cautiously in crowded areas- There are many places that will attract huge crowds in summer. When driving through such urban areas, extra care should be taken.
10. Car Insurance- Make sure you have adequate car insurance, and also carry proof of it. If stopped by the police, they might want to see your insurance papers, so always keep them handy.

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